Manchester United have reportedly tabled a bid for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde. Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo have suggested that the Catalan academy product is attracting multiple offers, including one from Michael Carrick's outfit.
Before Balde considers departing the Nou Camp, it has been stated that the 22-year-old wishes to establish whether he features in Hansi Flick's plans before determining his future.
United's interest and Barcelona's valuation
United have been extensively linked with left-back additions, while Newcastle boss Matthias Jaissle dismissed suggestions that Lewis Hall would trade the North East for the North West. ESPN has indicated that club sources at Old Trafford have played down the prospects of landing Balde, but the reigning La Liga champions have been informed of the attention.
Balde's situation remains uncertain after being omitted from the 5-0 victory in their season opener against Elche.
Flick's stance on Balde
Speaking afterwards, Flick acknowledged that the Catalan was excluded from the squad to refocus his thoughts amid the continuing transfer rumours. He said: "We have to manage the minutes, I hope to have six players who can play 90 minutes.
"I spoke with Balde this morning and told him that I think he's not here at 100%, clear your mind and then we'll talk."
Reports suggest that the German tactician wishes to hold personal talks with the full-back prior to reaching a verdict on his future. Meanwhile, Balde is seeking guarantees over his first-team opportunities with Joao Cancelo and Xavi Espart vying for a starting spot, with a meeting with Flick reportedly scheduled for Monday evening.
Potential deal and United's defensive needs
United would favour a season-long loan arrangement should Balde become available, according to ESPN, with the possibility of making any deal permanent.
It has been reported that the Spanish giants place his value at up to £34million. Luke Shaw currently occupies the starting left-back position at United, but Carrick finds himself needing to bolster his defensive options, with midfield reinforcements also growing as Carlos Baleba edges closer to completing a transfer.
United made a losing start under Carrick in his first full-season as permanent head coach, with Shaw among those involved in the 2-0 defeat at Hull. Reflecting on the loss, he said: "Disappointing, I think we knew Hull's strengths, Set-plays and wide positions and crosses into the box. At times we did defend well, but the goals, set-plays, not good enough.
"We knew they were going to be good from set-plays and ultimately it's cost us the three points."
